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The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, insisting that the country will not give up despite the challenges involved.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 15, the Minister described illegal mining as one of Ghana’s biggest environmental threats, warning of its devastating impact on forests, farmlands and water bodies.
He said the government remains focused on restoring degraded lands, protecting Ghana’s natural resources and reclaiming polluted rivers affected by illegal mining activities.
According to Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah, although the fight against galamsey has become increasingly difficult due to the widespread nature of the practice, authorities are strengthening collaboration among state institutions, security agencies and local communities to address the menace.
He stressed that protecting the country’s natural resources is a collective responsibility, adding that future generations deserve to inherit clean rivers, healthy forests and responsibly managed mineral resources.
The Minister further warned that individuals and groups involved in illegal mining would continue to face the full force of the law, declaring that the era of impunity was over.
“The fight against illegal mining is a defining environmental battle that our generation must fight. Our rivers are not for sale, our forests are not expendable, and our mineral wealth is a sacred inheritance that we have a duty to protect,” he stated.
Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah expressed confidence that Ghana would overcome the challenges associated with galamsey and successfully restore the environment.
“We will not retreat, we will not relent and we will not surrender. We shall reclaim our rivers, restore our forests, protect our natural wealth and secure a greener, stronger and more prosperous Ghana for posterity,” he added.
Story by Efua Nessa